Tips for Dressing a Rectangle Body Shape

If you have a rectangle body shape, you’re likely to find that straight lines and clean silhouettes suit you best. To create a balanced and slimming look, focus on accentuating your curves by drawing attention away from your straight torso and hips.

Skirt Length Matters

One of the key factors in creating a balanced look for a rectangle body shape is to choose the right skirt length. A-line skirts and flared maxi skirts can create the illusion of curves, while also drawing the eye downward to create a longer, more balanced silhouette. Knee-length skirts are also a great option, as they break up the straight line of the torso and create a more feminine shape.

Proportion Your Tops and Bottoms

To minimize the boxy shape of a rectangle body, focus on creating proportion by balancing your tops and bottoms. Avoid baggy or oversized tops, instead opting for fitted blouses or tops that create a clean line from the shoulders to the hips. Balance these fitted tops with flared bottoms, such as wide-leg pants or a-line skirts, to create a more balanced look.

Highlight Your Bust

Accentuating your bust is a great way to create a more feminine and attractive look, drawing the eye upward and creating a more shapely figure. Choose tops and dresses that have a defined waistline, and focus on ruffles, gathering, or embroidery to add visual interest to your chest area. Avoid clingy fabrics or tight necklines, as these can make your bust appear even flatter.

Balance Wide Hips

Rectangle body shapes often have a narrower waist-to-hips ratio, so it’s essential to balance your wide hips with a fitted top or bottom. A-line dresses and tops can help minimize the width of your hips, while also creating a more feminine shape. You can also use a belted dress or top to create the illusion of a smaller waist.

Flatter Your Thighs

Flaring your thighs can create a more balanced look on a rectangle body shape, as it draws the eye upward and creates a more curvy silhouette. You can achieve this with a flared skirt or dress, or by wearing high-waisted pants that create a more defined shape around the hips and thighs.

Add a Pop of Color

Adding a pop of color is a great way to create visual interest and break up the boxy shape of a rectangle body. Choose bright colors or bold patterns for your tops or accessories, and balance these with neutral colors for your bottoms or outerwear. This can help draw the eye away from your straight torso and create a more dynamic look.

Style Guide for Rectangle Body Shape

  • Tops: Fitted blouses, ruffled or gathered tops with defined waistlines
  • Bottoms: Wide-leg pants, flared skirts, A-line dresses
  • Skirts: Knee-length or maxi skirts that flare out at the hem
  • Dresses: A-line dresses with defined waistlines, flared dresses with bold prints
  • Accessories: Statement necklaces, scarves, or belts to draw the eye upward and create a more curvy silhouette

Rectangle Body Shape Styling Tips for Different Occasions

  • For a night out: Wear a fitted dress or top with a flared bottom, add a statement necklace and bold lips for a glamorous look.
  • For a casual day out: Choose a fitted top with wide-leg pants or a flared skirt, add a scarf or a hat for a more relaxed look.
  • For a formal event: Wear a floor-length A-line dress with a defined waistline, add a pair of statement earrings and a clutch for a sophisticated look.
  • For a summer evening: Wear a flowy maxi dress with a defined waistline, add a pair of sandals and a statement necklace for a relaxed yet stylish look.

Rectangle Body Shape Styling Mistakes to Avoid

  • Wearing too many straight lines in a row (e.g. a straight skirt with a straight top)
  • Choosing tops or dresses that cling too tightly to your body
  • Failing to balance your proportions (e.g. wearing oversized tops with flared bottoms)
  • Ignoring your silhouette (e.g. wearing a straight-neckline top with a straight skirt)

Key Takeaway

To create a balanced and slimming look, focus on accentuating your curves by drawing attention away from your straight torso and hips.